Pat Johnson is more than just a photographer. He sets the mood with his professionalism. You just know he's done this 1000's of times by his expert advice and demeanor, and he will help you look good and have fun doing it. He asked me what look I wanted and then told me how we could best achieve it. He is the only photographer I will ever call. I have done two sessions with him and both times was thrilled with the results! Not to mention going to his studio feels like going to the music hall of San Francisco. He has changed my own perception of my own image and helped me see my own beauty, and that is why I say he's more than just a photographer. Anyone who gets a session with him should consider themselves incredibly blessed. I also hope to start using him for real estate photos. Thank you again Pat, words just aren't enough! read more

Pat Johnson Studios - Just one of the amazing photos Pat took for me! - Session Photography Near Me - San Mateo, California

We had a great experience working with Pat on our family portraits for our baby's 100 day birthday. He was able to get some great shots in his studio and made some suggestions that worked out great. He clearly has a lot of experience working with families and babies. Pat was very customer oriented and was willing to shoot as much as necessary until we were satisfied. He also retouched several of our images for framing and sharing with friends and family. As an added bonus Pat is a highly respected music photographer and was gracious in allowing me to peruse his portraits and live performance shots of legendary musicians such as Frank Zappa, David Bowie and Tupac Shakur. Despite his reputation, Pat's rates were very reasonable. Overall, a fun experience and highly recommended. read more

My bands needed a promo shot done as well as a CD cover and Pat Johnson was the first photographer I thought of after meeting him doing a promo shoot for BAM Magazine. He really knows how to get the best out of each individual as well as knowing bands, marketing and what just works! read more

See all

Pat is awesome! I booked Pat for my company's professional head shots. He did an amazing job managing a big group. Everyone was raving how great he was! read more

Wow! All I can say is that Pat Johnson is one of the most talented and diverse and professional photographers out there. We were lucky enough to have Pat photograph our wedding, he brought such a cool and amazing style to capturing our special day. He captured so many cool natural moments that weren't planned or set-up. He has a demeanor and a professionalism that makes him fit right in, you would almost think that he was one of the family. We have since used him for family portraits and he recently photographed my brother's wedding. In addition to the "Wow" factor of his work, there is also the cool factor to say that we were photographed by the top rock n' roll photographer who has photographed Eminem, Aerosmith, No Doubt, Santana, Journey...! I would recommend Pat Johnson Studios for any event. read more

I have known Pat Johnson from the time he arrived here in California from his hometown of Cleveland and still consider him one of my closest and dearest friends. He is without a doubt one of the best photographers you could ever be lucky enough to book. He is a true professional with a resume or shall we say cast of characters ranging from Ringo Starr to Snoop Dog to wedding photos. He does it all , and does it well .You will find him to be not only humble Bouton his accomplishments but sincere in his efforts to please you and put you at ease in any setting . If you are a seeking a professional session and a relaxed time get your booking with Pat Johnson studios. read more

It's not like Pat needs reviews on Yelp in order to drum up business. Pat is well-known in the music industry, not to mention his work for the 49ers and other teams. Why I'm writing is because Pat has helped the careers of many musicians like myself, who weren't rock stars, but still got great promo pictures by going to Pat. I never felt like Pat was just putting in his time when I showed up there for a session; he was focused and had good ideas about what to do for the shots. And when I see him out at gigs and shows, it's always nice to talk with him. Check out his photo archives--there's a lot music history there. read more

Pat is a serious photographer. The new studio relocated in San Mateo is in process of becoming the biggest hit of the peninsula and beyond. Pat took picture of us 4 guys, rocking in a Blues/Rock band: Blue Voodoo ( Photo shoot took about 3 hours. For our band, Pat Jonson studio exceeded our expectations is many ways. Feel Good- Pat made us feel like we were rock-stars with humility and distinction. Pat is lay-back and personable. As we looked at the walls, covered with photos of the celebrity he took, like David Bowie, Y&T, Tina Turner, and so many more, he made us feel like we belonged there. The eye- Pat's eye for light, angles is simply amazing. As a bunch of photograph wannabe's, the reality is : Nothing replaces what the photographer sees through the lens, angles, light, depth. It only take 1 photo to show us "alive" and that photo captured our expression and character. Creativity- Pat 's introduction started with : "I have an idea for your band. As I researched you guys ... and I came up with this blue light ". Man that felt good. Immediately we felt that with research Pat understood what our band stand for and aims to achieve. The photos turned out amazing, blue on black, half of our faces light up, a background on fire. Just Superb. Picture is on Facebook. Check it out. Value- We believe Pat's service were invaluable to us. Definitively worth the money, the time invested. We got tons of digital prints (30-40), perfect right-out the box. Great material to help promote our band and maybe on our next CD cover. We wouldn't mind going back for more... If you look for a great photographer, experienced with a keen eye, just look no further. Look for Pat Johnson Studio Hugo http://www.bluevoodoomusic.com - http://www.facebook.com/bvdmusic) . read more

There is no one in the world of photography like Pat Johnson. He has such a legendary reputation that I couldn't believe my luck that he was available. He is not the cheapest but he is the best in the business. if you get this brilliant guy to take your picture you'll be right up there with David Bowie, Bonnie Raitt, Neil Young and Metallica, to name a few of the thousands who have been photographed by Pat and whose pictures adorn the walls of his studio. He was a master at a number of critical things: 1) making me feel completely comfortable, 2) knowing exactly how to position a shot so that I never looked so good--he was so intuitive I was waiting for my fortune to get told next, and 3) having a remarkable gift for getting "the shot". He shot lots of pictures of me, but he had an unerring eye for immediately pointing out that one shot that captured my essence more than any of the rest. If you need a photographer for your musical career, your business, your website, or your modeling agency, grab this guy while you have a chance. It was the best decision I ever made. read more

Pat Johnson is an iconic legend in the photography world - locally and beyond. Pat has shot some of the biggest names in the entertainment business but he is equally at home in ANY arena that needs a keen, creative professional eye. The quality is second to none, it's affordable and Pat makes it all easy and FUN. His studio has character, much like the photographer himself! . Pat really knows how to put the subject at ease, capture the MOMENT and get AMAZING results in a timely and effortless way. I was SO pleased with all the different moods and looks he got from me and I have been able to use so many of the photos to promote all the types of work I do. Choose Pat Johnson as your photographer for whatever your needs are and YOU will be THRILLED you did! read more

Aside of being a true professional, Pat is simply a nice person. We did a head shot for a magazine article and he really made me feel comfortable, studied the samples I sent, did the setup accordingly, and gave some tips on posing. His main goal is for you to leave happy with a great picture and the result you've aiming for. He also allowed me to come back to shoot a little more after the editor's feedback. Not only will you get a great picture(-s) you came for, but you will also have a pleasure of chatting with Pat, get to know him a little (he's got an interesting studio full of cool stuff) and maybe meet his fest fried Rocco. read more

What can you say about Pat? We trusted Pat to capture our amazing wedding day and we could not be more pleased! I knew Pat was as high a quality professional photographer as they come but we were still blown away not only by the resulting pictures but, of how he kept everything on point along the way. A true joy to work with on our big day! We would highly recommend Pat for any occasion and we plan on using him again in the future for any photography need. 5 big stars! read more

Pat is the best photography and Bay Area music historian too. His studio has so many cool shots of The Who's who of rock and pop music from the 70's-current. The Jacksons, Fleetwood Mac, Culture Club, and lots of Journey. He is great at shooting bands, individuals, photo touch up or live events too. Always a fair price and fast turnaround too. read more

Pat Johnson is happening! I am pretty average looking and needed a photo for a business resume. He made me look like a fashion model! I mean it! This guy has photographed everyone from Hillary Clinton to Boy George to Barry Bonds. Really a nice, unpretentious guy, too. Go there! He does all kinds of work, models, rock stars, businessmen, kids and even a wedding (if you twist his arm!) read more

I was completely satisfied with Pat Johnson's work preparing promo photos for some musical artists that I represent, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend him wholeheartedly to anyone lucky enough to engage his services. Great guy doing great work. read more

What a fun time at Pat Johnson Studios for friends' band photo shoot. He is a great guy and photographer. If you like rock, you'll like his awesome portfolio. My favorite is Metallica. Oh yah Pat likes to high five!! read more

eHealth has used Pat Johnson for 8 years. He's fast, reliable, flexible and does terrific work. In 2015 he did our entire display photo shoot - planning, casting, set design, production, photo editing and output - in a week. Love Pat read more

Pat Johnson's photography is as professional as it gets. He offers affordable rates and sets a tone during shooting that makes you feel incredibly comfortable and at ease, and in doing such is able to capture the one of a kind shots he does. His work is iconic and the quality of shots he captures reflect his decades of experience in the industry. I would recommend Pat Johnson Studios to anyone looking for a great deal in quality photographs. read more

I have been working with Pat for over 17 years, and he always makes my events look amazing. Not only are his photos terrific, he is a joy to work with. He always has a smile, and a fantastic attitude. I love working with Pat! He has so much history with his work. He is talented, creative and fun to work with. I highly recommend him. Thank you Pat for your amazing work in the world! read more

Pat is an incredibly knowledgeable and creative human being. He made the shooting process fun and collaborative and set me at ease. Best of all, we were able to look back at the photos immediately and make decisions about each look. I had a great experience and I look forward to working with him again!" read more

Legendary rock photographer, Pat Johnson, is the best. Pat has shot most ALL of the great performers, rock icons, and entertainers. And his work is proof why everyone wants to hire Pat. Very easy to work with, fun atmosphere, and always fantastic proofs to peruse, and use for multiple shots. If you need the best photos possible, for any occasion, you ONLY want Pat Johnson as your photographer. read more

LOOK NO FURTHER!!! THIS GUY IS AN AMAZING PHOTOGRAPHER!! Pat was a great PROFESSIONAL to work with. He takes the time to listen to what you want and what you intend to achieve from your shoot. He is diligent in his work and puts his best to achieve the results for you. He makes you comfortable and helps you deliver your Best!! I mean it LOOK NO FURTHER!! He is my photographer for Life!! read more

Pat has taken photos of my family for my entire life. Pat has shot Christmas Cards, engagement photos, headshots, and even some of my musical projects. Pat always gets timeless and gorgeous photos. Really and excellent photographer to work with. read more

Pat Johnson is one of the best photographers I have worked with in the USA ! And I have lived all over this great country . Besides a fabulous eye he is also a cool dude. I have sent many clients there for sessions . Keep up the good work . read more

I don't call him Pat, I always call him Mr. Magic, and there is a reason for this. Once he gets you in front of his camera, there is nothing more 'usual'... First of all, after a nice chat, he takes your insecurities and fears of the camera away, he will play with you so professional, trying to get you in the best light, angle, etc, that you'll get a feeling of being a supermodel, he will give you very specific advice and tips what to do to catch your best, 'chocolate' sides. We had many really cool shoots together, it was always super fun, stepping into the different world of 'captured moments, moods and arts', always with a cool music in the background. He let me feel very special, and I will never forget it. Mr. Magic is extraordinary talented, funny, true legend and an icon, with very good energy and eye for different images. I was heartbroken when I learned that he moved his studio from the South Park to San Mateo, and will always miss spontaneous visit and shots. read more

See all

From the phone conversation to schedule an appointment for my corporate portrait to the end product, Pat captures the moment.

Excellent photographer for all kinds of photography!creative, great quality work and very personable. Most important, will go the extra mile to fulfill your needs. Highly recommended! A+ read more

Pat is hands down the best photographer around. I have used him for corporate headshots and my family has used him for wedding photos and for shots published in books. Not only do the photos always turn out great, but Pat is an awesome person. He has a unique style which always allows him to capture the meaning of the moment. His studio is like walking into rock and roll history. I would strongly encourage anyone who wants to have great photos taken to go to Pat, chances are you'll also find a new friend as well. read more

I've been working with Pat Johnson for many years and when it comes to photography, no one is better ! Whether you need family portraits, group shots, pet portraits or roaming event photography, Pat is great. He's professional, reliable, punctual and always delivers. I've sent him on some pretty miserable shoots over the years and he's never complained !! Plus he's a really nice guy who loves what he does and takes takes great pride in a job well done. Very rare in today's world. read more

I went to Pat Johnson Photography Studios the other day for a photo shoot for some pics for my website bio. I chose Pat Johnson because I knew he's been in the business for nearly 40 years and I wanted a pro. And I had been to him before for a photo shoot about 3 years ago. So I am a repeat customer. Well, after my photo shoot...when I saw my photos, I was sure I chose the right guy! Pat was a total pro. His lighting and camera equipment are top notch, more old school rather than every new piece of digital high tech...which for photography, in my opinion is far better! For photos which are really art...the old school adds to the quality for sure. And he really knows his stuff! He's got to this point in his career, for his knowledge and his 'eye for the art of photography' ...A true Annie Leibovitz, Ansel Adams, Jim Marshall....Pat Johnson is very much in that league. I'm in my fifties, I just had a birthday and I know for many women another birthday may be a little daunting and even depressing...Pat reversed that thinking! He is a true artist! You can tell by the photos on his walls of his extensive career....Bands from the Jacksons to the Rolling Stones, Journey, to Eminem to Yoko Ono...all fine examples of his artistry. My photos are a refection of his expertise! I would recommend Pat to any of my women friends to give you an example to keep forever, of our real beauty! Thank you Pat Johnson for making me a rockstar!...again! read more

I have been visiting Pat Johnson in his studio since the earliest days when it was on South Park in San Francisco. When I was ready to release my CD Rough Hewn Heart it was only natural to ask Pat to do all the photography. The compliments I received were fantastic. The time he took with me and the way he made it an incredibly fun shoot will always be remembered as one of my best memories. Just a few weeks ago (January 2017) I had a chance to visit the new studio in San Mateo. He has transferred all of the atmosphere and energy of the older studio to the new one. His studio is also a veritable museum of the shots he has taken over the years. How many people have both shots of Prince Philip and Iggy Pop on the same wall :) I can't recommend Pat enough. He is a master with the camera, but more than that, just an absolutely fantastic, real person. If looking for your next (or first) shoot, look no further than Pat Johnson Studio read more